Art of the Cowgirl is thrilled to present a truly unique opportunity—our 2025 Raffle features a beautifully refurbished vintage camper trailer, a work of art crafted in support of the Art of the Cowgirl Foundation.
Lovingly named after the wild and iconic cowgirl Mamie Francis Hafley, this one-of-a-kind camper was painted and restored by the talented Savanna Simmons. Additional pieces within the camper have been graciously donated, making it a collaborative work of art.
Raffle tickets for the “Mamie Francis Hafley” camper will be available online only starting January 10, 2025, and throughout the duration of the 2025 event. The lucky winner will be drawn on Saturday afternoon, March 1, during the Wrangler All-Girl Ranch Rodeo Finals presented by COWGIRL Magazine.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Savanna for her incredible dedication and to all the generous donors who contributed to this project. Every dollar raised from the raffle directly supports the Art of the Cowgirl Fellowship Program, helping to empower and inspire the next generation of women in the Western arts.
• $20 PER TICKET OR 8 FOR $100
• Drawing will be completed Saturday afternoon, March 1, 2025, during the Ranch Rodeo Finals.
• Winner does not need to be present to win, but is responsible for transporting.
Mamie Francis Hafley (1885–1950) was a legendary cowgirl who left an indelible mark on the history of rodeo and the American West. Known for her exceptional horsemanship, daring trick riding, and fearless roping skills, Hafley embodied the spirit of the frontier and played a pivotal role in elevating the status of women in rodeo sports.
Early Life and Path to Rodeo Stardom
Born in California, Marie Francis Hafley grew up immersed in ranch life, where she developed a deep connection with horses and the Western way of life. Her natural talent for riding and her determination to pursue a nontraditional path for women in the early 20th century set her apart from her peers.
Hafley began her career performing in Wild West shows, where her daring feats of trick riding and sharp roping skills quickly garnered attention. She became known for her ability to execute dangerous stunts with precision, riding bareback or performing jaw-dropping maneuvers on galloping horses. She also became known for her daring horse diving act. Her charisma and skill made her a standout in a competitive and male-dominated field.
Trailblazer for Women in Rodeo
As rodeo evolved into a competitive sport, Hafley became one of the first women to compete professionally. She participated in events such as bronc riding and relay races, often outperforming her male counterparts. Hafley was also a pioneer in showcasing women’s abilities on horseback, proving that cowgirls could match the strength, grit, and talent of their male counterparts.
Hafley’s career was a testament to her resilience. She performed at a time when women in rodeo faced significant challenges, from limited opportunities to societal expectations. Yet, her courage and determination opened doors for future generations of women in the sport.
Legacy
Mamie Francis Hafley is remembered as a trailblazing cowgirl who helped shape the modern rodeo and redefine women’s roles in the American West. Her contributions to the sport and her fearless spirit remain an inspiration to cowgirls and ranch women today. Hafley’s story is a shining example of perseverance, passion, and the enduring legacy of the cowgirl tradition.
Mamie Francis Haffey’s life is a testament to courage, grit, and the enduring spirit of the cowgirl. Her story remains an integral part of Western history, symbolizing the strength and determination of women who carved out their place in a challenging and ever-changing frontier.
